San Antonio Introduction

San Antonio is one of the United States’ oldest cities, settled by 16 Spanish families who came over from the Canary Islands in 1731. Today it is one of the country’s largest and fastest growing cities that enjoys an average of 300 sunny days per year, warm temperatures and an assortment of historic, modern and natural attractions, all of which make it a favourable place to live and visit.

Take a stroll through one of the oldest areas in the city, King William Historic District. It was largely developed by its German occupants in the mid-19th century when mansions in a range of architectural styles began to be built, reflecting Greek Revival, Victorian and Italianate influence. Named after Wilhelm I, King of Prussia between 1861 and 1888, it was declared San Antonio’s first historic district in 1968.

Another great place for a leisurely saunter is a pedestrianised walkway that can be found below street level known as San Antonio River Walk. Filled with bars, restaurants and shops it enjoys a picturesque setting along the banks of the San Antonio River where during Fiesta San Antonio, which takes place in April, colourful floats can be seen floating past.

There are plenty of historical sites to take in, such as the Alamo Mission in San Antonio where the Battle of the Alamo took place in 1836. Originally a Roman Catholic mission, which was constructed in 1724, it now houses a museum and is one of the city’s most visited spots. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is another location worth checking out where you’ll come across four out of five Spanish frontier missions.

For an expansive view of the city, travel to the top of the Tower of the Americas which is 750 feet high. The tallest observation tower in the United States until 1996, it can be found in HemisFair Park and contains an observation deck, as well as a restaurant.

San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden is a beautiful landscape to observe that was created on an abandoned limestone rock quarry and is now on the US National Register of Historic Places. The Natural Bridge Caverns are also well worth spending a day at where you can go caving, panning for precious stones and simply observe this spectacular natural environment. If you’re brave and unafraid of heights, take the Canopy Challenge where you’ll find yourself scrambling up a 60 foot adventure course, contemplating various obstacles and zip lining high above ground.

San Antonio Travel Guides

Temperatures in San Antonio peak in July and August, when it isn't uncommon for thermometers to read 35oC or more. Wintertime highs drop below 20oC, but even the coldest days rarely involve freezing temperatures. Autumn and spring (when the Fiesta is on) are the most comfortable seasons, when temperatures settle into the mid-20s (oC). more...

Flat-bottom river barges ply the Paseo del Rio, cruising past the terraced cafes and boutiques. Guided tours, which typically last around 40 minutes, explore two miles of the River Walk and feature lively narratives along the way. Shuttle barges (without tour guides) are also available to carry passengers to various drop-off points across the riverfront shopping district. more...

The former home of Texas legislator, Jose Antonio Navarro, this 19th century adobe home is tucked into downtown San Antonio. Navarro worked as a legislature under three regimes: Mexico, the Republic of Texas, and the Texan state. Navarro was also a prominent merchant and rancher, and a tour of his estate reveals a number of period antiques as well as his personal writings. Phone: +1 210 226 4801 more...

It is also possible to arrive in San Antonio by bus (via Greyhound) or by train (via Amtrak). However, these two modes of transportation are less desirable as they involve long travel times and nominal savings (if any) over travel by car. more...

Aside from standard prohibited items (firearms, explosives, illegal drugs and so on), US customs officials enforce a ban on merchandise made in countries on which the government has imposed sanctions: namely North Korea, Cuba, Iran and Myanmar. The following items can be brought into the US free of duty: 1 litre of spirits, 1 carton of cigarettes and US$200 worth of merchandise. Cash or goods exceeding US$10,000 must be declared at customs. more...